A unique operation was carried out in the Spanish capital: police discovered, for the first time, a large batch of heroin disguised as pills. Five people have been arrested, suspected of creating a new drug trafficking scheme from Colombia. All of them are already in custody.
The operation was the result of a lengthy investigation involving not only Spanish authorities but also partners from the United States and Colombia. Police attention was drawn to a group linked to crimes against public health. According to investigators, this organization had established a new, previously undetected heroin supply chain into Spain.
Arrests in Madrid
The operation culminated last November, when police officers stopped the transfer of eight kilograms of heroin in pill form. The deal was scheduled to take place during the day in the parking lot of a Madrid shopping center, where all five group members were detained.
During the arrests, it became clear that the criminals had meticulously prepared for each meeting. They chose a fast-food restaurant in the city center for negotiations, considering it a safe spot. The group’s leader avoided using mobile phones and never attended meetings in person. He preferred to make stops along the way to ensure he wasn’t being followed.
Conspiracy tactics
To conceal their identities, the suspects used sunglasses, headwear, and changed their travel routes. Instead of using their personal vehicles, they relied on public transportation or hired private drivers. Over time, the frequency of their meetings increased, which allowed police to identify another key member of the operation.
Investigators note that this is the first case in Spain where such a heroin smuggling scheme from Colombia has been detected. The organization demonstrated a high level of professionalism and strictly followed security protocols to avoid police attention. They involved third parties in the delivery process, further complicating law enforcement efforts.
Financial trails
As part of the investigation, searches were conducted at three locations in Madrid. As a result, five cell phones, a car, and an electronic wallet containing cryptocurrency worth 100,000 USDT were seized. According to the investigation, all these assets are believed to be connected to the criminal group’s activities.
The detainees are charged with participation in a criminal organization and violating drug trafficking laws. After their arrest, all five were brought before the court and placed in pre-trial detention.
